Steeves Summary: #46: Thanksgiving                      October 2007

Being truly Canadian, I am compelled to give you a brief report on the weather and the season. We are having a beautiful sunny and unusually warm Autumn. The countryside is filled with colorful trees. There is much to be thankful for this time of year.

Many are asking, “how is your family adjusting to Canada?” Even though the children are missing their positive experiences at RVA, life has moved on. They are making friends, doing well in their schoolwork, and have kept their sense of humour as well as their creativity. Mike has returned to his former job at Point Lepreau nuclear plant. There is a lot of work to be done as the plant is shutting down next year for a major refurbishment. I've returned to Saint Joseph's Hospital to work on the assessment unit and restorative unit. The technology has improved since I've left but the general care of patients has remained the same. It has been nice to see former co-workers again, meet new ones, and take care of patients who are often interesting characters. We've been sharing about the Kenya mission once or twice a week. It's been great to share with supporters firsthand as they are a real encouragement to us.

The children are especially thankful for Twiga (giraffe in Swahili), a young calico cat with an extremely l-o-n-g neck and body. Twiga has found her freedom with the new cat door Mike installed. She now spends much of her time hunting in our backyard and occasionally struts back indoors with a glowing confidence, holding a prized catch-of-the-day between her teeth! That... I am not thankful for!

Feed My Lambs Project: We are continuing to support the Feed My Lambs Project.  This week Ephantus wrote and told us about Eliud, a widower with AIDS and father of two HIV+ children. I remember seeing Eliud for the first time over a year ago as he slowly walked uphill from his shamba (garden) to greet us; a tall unenergetic man with a firm handshake and a gentle smile. He lives in a humble mud home and I know there are days when he is unable to feed his family. Eliud has not had it easy! After his wife died ten years ago, he became a man of faith. He attributes this for his renewed strength dealing with his disease and his everyday struggles.

Last Sunday, Eliud gave his testimony in front of the Escarpment church. From the Bible that he received from the project, he shared Psalm 40:1-4.

I wait patiently for the Lord;he turned to me and heard my cry. He lifted me out of the slimy pit, out of mud and mire; he set my feet on a rock and gave me a firm place to stand. He put a new song in my mouth, a hymn of praise to our God.  Many will see and fear and put their trust in the Lord. Blessed is the man who the Lord his trust, who does not look to the proud, to those who turn aside to false gods.

Be joyful always; pray continually give thanks in all circumstances, for this is God's will for you in Christ Jesus. 1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Have a great Thanksgiving!

Bernadine, Michael, Julianne, and Evan

You can see our previous newsletters on our website at www.kijabe.org/mission2005

Michael and Bernadine Steeves 113 Pauline St. Saint John, NB phone:  (506) 657-4925 steeves@kijabe.org www.kijabe.org